Lodge Officers – The Charity Steward

Another important post in a Freemasons’ Lodge is that of the Charity Steward, whose role is to champion all forms of charitable activity within the Lodge.

It  is a job which should never be undertaken lightly, as to do it properly requires personal commitment,  time and effort.

Fundraising activities can be undertaken in  many ways  but a common pathway to success is to build a relationship of trust and goodwill with the membership.

Fundraising priorities will vary between Lodges and  will depend on whether or not the Province is “in Festival”.  However the specific duties of the Charity Steward which are common to all may be summarised as follows:

  • Presenting compelling cases for giving, without being either too forceful, (which may deter potential donors), or too passive (so as not to miss opportunities).
  • Encouraging regular giving e.g. through standing orders.
  • Increasing the value of donations through Gift Aid.
  • Discussing legacies, as appropriate.
  • Planning, organising and implementing events and fundraising activities.
  • Making regular  reports to the Lodge.
  • Keeping monies safe and, wherever possible, earning interest.
  • Maintaining accurate records.
  • Ensuring the Charity Accounts are presented to the Lodge/Chapter on an annual basis.
  • Disbursing funds as authorised by the Lodge.
CEKFC Charity
CEKFC Charity Presentation

Initiating and leading fundraising within the Lodge not only brings financial benefits to Masonic and non-Masonic Charities, but personal satisfaction and a great deal of fun along the way!   For someone who enjoys fundraising or event planning it is a great way to make a real difference not only in the Lodge but in the Community at large.

If this is something that interests you, click here to find out how to get involved.

12 Gifts of Christmas…. #12 Happy Christmas!

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This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

And Finally…

People sometimes ask
What is Freemasonry for?

Here are a few answers…

 

If you have enjoyed this festive look at what Freemasonry is really all about and would like to get involved, we at Agricola Lodge No 4501 would love to hear from you.

 Click here to get the ball rolling.

Merry Christmas from us all in
Agricola Lodge No 4501

SEE YOU IN 2018!

 

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12 Gifts of Christmas…. #11 Tony

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This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

Here is the next in the series…

 Taking on the important role of Almoner or Visiting Volunteer can be a challenge. The MCF produces guides, factsheets and videos help people like Tony to support the members of their Masonic community.

12 Gifts of Christmas…. #10 Sean

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The MCF logo

This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

Here is the next in the series…

The MCF’s medical research grants are helping to improve diagnosis, advance treatment and enhance the quality of life for thousands of people across the county. Our £65,000 grant to INSPIRE Foundation is funding Sean Doherty’s research into restoring bladder and bowel function for other people with spinal cord injuries.

 

Merry Christmas from us all in
Agricola Lodge No 4501

 

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12 Gifts of Christmas…. #9 Jess

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This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

Here is the next in the series…

When Jess’s dad was made redundant, he couldn’t afford to support his children through a university education. The MCF’s support for Masonic families facing financial distress means that young people like Jess can focus on their studies rather than worrying about the cost.

Merry Christmas from us all in
Agricola Lodge No 4501

 

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12 Gifts of Christmas…. #8 Lifeworks

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This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

Here is the next in the series…

The MCF also supports smaller charities like Lifeworks in Devonshire. They used their £1,000 grant to create a new sensory room which is helping young people with learning disabilities learn how to communicate with the world around them.

Merry Christmas from us all in
Agricola Lodge No 4501

 

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12 Gifts of Christmas…. #7 Keith

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This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

Here is the next in the series…

Keith was in a great deal of pain and facing a seven month wait just to see a specialist on the NHS. The MCF funded Keith’s operation, helping him to get back on his feet, and get on with his life.

Merry Christmas from us all in
Agricola Lodge No 4501

 

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12 Gifts of Christmas…. #6 Music

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The MCF logo

This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

Here is the next in the series…

Live music can have a powerful effect on people who are isolated by illness or disability. Our £60,000 grant to Music in Hospitals & Care is helping to bring the joy of music to over 200 care homes across the country.

Merry Christmas from us all in
Agricola Lodge No 4501

 

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12 Gifts of Christmas…. #5 Joan

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This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

Here is the next in the series…

Our Masonic Care Homes are commited to delivering the best possible care to meet the needs of older Freemasons and their families. Members of the Masonic community who choose a Masonic Care Home have the security of knowing that they have a home for life, even if their financial circumstances change.

Merry Christmas from us all in
Agricola Lodge No 4501

 

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12 Gifts of Christmas…. #4 Helen

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This year the Masonic Charitable Foundation are releasing a series of 12 short videos to highlight the work carried out on behalf of our members during 2017.  It is stories like this that make us proud to be Masons!

Here is the next in the series…

Thanks to the MCF’s TalentAid programme, Helena was able to buy her own violin which she still uses when she plays with the Philharmonic Orchestra.

Merry Christmas from us all in
Agricola Lodge No 4501

 

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